Business Etiquette
The Importance of Etiquette
Etiquette has always been an important part of life, be it social or business. However, it seems that business etiquette is has become more important in the last decade. This is mainly due to the fact that the business world is becoming more global and that “relationship selling” has become must for success. Etiquette is important for a variety of reasons. It helps to ease what might become and uneasy situation and can make or break business relationships that are worth millions of dollars. In essence, etiquette helps people to understand what is appropriate in any situation. It is also important to know the difference between business protocol and business etiquette. Business protocol determines what actions you take in a situation. Etiquette tells you how to take those actions. According to Ann Marie Sabath, there are a few guidelines that professionals should follow. Firstly, be proactive. Find ways to establish relationships with clients before they need to purchase something from you. Secondly, send a thank-you note. If someone is willing to give you 15 minutes of their time than they deserve a written thank-you. And thirdly, be a good sport. Even if you have been turned down by a client, thank them for giving consideration to your company (Bass, 2000).
The Effects of Social Etiquette on the Business World
The business world of the past encompasses a predominantly male environment with innate, discerned guidelines. Today, the business arena has changed with the civil rights movement and the entry of women into the workplace. The changes continue to evolve with other sociocultural issues. In order to be successful in the business world a masterization of business etiquette is imperative.
There is a sizeable difference between social etiquette and business etiquette. Social etiquette is primarily based on chivalry, which includes the concept of protecting women. Business etiquette, on the other hand, includes military origins based on hierarchy of power. This effects the behavior in the business world in as much as men and women are treated equally as peers. For example, if one should hold the door open for a woman, he/she should open a door for a man in the same situation. Regardless of gender doors are held open for superiors, clients, peers following close on one heel...
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... integral part of our daily lives. It is very easy to slip into “casual speak” when dealing with business e-mails. However, business professionals should keep in mind that they are dealing with other businesses and the same formality use when face-to-face should be used for writing and sending business e-mails. It may also be a good idea to take a few tips from the pros…literally. There are several services that provided by etiquette consultants. Many of these services can be found online or in your nearest bookstore. Knowledge it the most important aspect of good business etiquette.
Works Cited
1. Alihan, M. (1970). Corporate Etiquette. New York: Weybright and Talley
2. Mathew Ferrara Seminars.
Http://www.mfseminars.com [Accessed: 2000, October 9]
3. Jankowic, E. (1986). Behave Yourself!. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall
4. Klinkenberg, H.
Http://www.etiquetteintl.com/manner.htm [Accessed: 2000, October 9]
5. Martin, C. Untitled.
Http://www.builder.cnet.com/Business/Rules [Accessed: 2000, October 9]
6. Pearce, F. Business Etiquette International.
Http://www.bspage.com/Inetiq/Netiq.html [Accessed: 2000, October 8]
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